Position Statement: U.S. Flag Burning

Libertarians (and I) believe that any act or behavior that does not harm another person is not crime. A crime is an act with a victim, someone who has been harmed.

Specifically I do not believe in any effort – especially an amendment to the U.S. Constitution – to ban or criminalize burning of a U.S. flag! There must be something better for law enforcement persons to focus on, such as violent crime.

I consider myself to be a very patriotic person and I believe deeply in the principles of our great country. My father's "veteran's flag" and his infantryman's badge are among my most important possessions. They are prominently displayed in the front room of my home with great pride. He and the millions that fought for my liberty are my heroes. I love my country!

But, banning or criminalizing flag burning is just plain silly. Flags are mere pieces of fabric that provide a symbol for our country. Our country and the principles that the U.S. flag represents are not damaged if the flag is burned – and there most certainly is no victim.

In closing, consider the words of a great American, Daniel Webster:
Good intentions will always be pleaded for every assumption of authority. It is hardly too strong to say that the Constitution was made to guard the people against the dangers of good intentions.